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Ford launches new extended-range E-Transit and new electric minibus

Ford has revealed a new extended-range Ford E-Transit and Ford E-Transit Minibus at the 2024 CV Show.

The new longer range Ford E-Transit has a new 89kWh battery, increasing its overall range by 28% cent to 249 miles and features faster AC and DC charging.

The latest model will be delivered to customers from early 2025 and uses the Ford Pro platform of connected charging and software to help "optimise energy management, streamline servicing and minimising downtime and cost of ownership" according to Ford.

The extended range Ford E-Transit is designed to appeal to buyers who operate in rural regions, colder climates, or on routes involving motorway driving.

A vapour-injected heat pump is standard on the extended range option to heat the cabin more efficiently in low temperatures. The system is similar to that on the Ford E-Transit Custom – the first-ever electric vehicle to use the technology – and is designed to improve energy efficiency and optimise range in colder weather.

In addition, the maximum AC charge capability has been increased from 11kW to 22 kW, meaning a full overnight charge will take under six hours, while DC fast charging capability has been increased from 115kW to 180kW.

That means a 10-minute charge can add up to 70 miles of driving range while a 10-80% charge takes approximately 28 minutes.

Ford has also announced that it is enhancing the Ford E-Transit line-up with a new factory-supported electric minibus conversion.

The new 15-seater is designed to support customers such as taxi firms, schools and local authorities as they electrify and is based on an Ford E-Transit L3 window van.

Customers can specify a single or double front passenger seat, nine-seat or 12-seat rear layout and standard or high roof options. Air conditioning, rear cabin heating and a powered side-step are all standard.

Ask HJ

Is a used Ford Transit Custom a reliable buy?

I am looking at a 2016 Ford Transit Custom, however I have read terrible reviews of this year’s model. The model I am looking at is a limited black 2.0 TDCi 130ps with 80000 miles on the clock. I am aiming to use it as my only vehicle, replacing my car and campervan to cut down costs. Annual mileage will be about 5000 miles.I am a 70 year old woman and live on a small pension, so cannot afford any costly problems. Would you recommend this vehicle, or do you suggest I steer clear of it?
There are a few known issues with cambelt failure on "wet belt" engines on this model (without seeing the VIN plate we can't tell you if it is a wet belt engine or not) but otherwise reliability is good. The issue is that sometimes the belt fails before Ford's recommended seven-year/144,000 mile replacement. Given the age and mileage of the van you're looking at we'd either insist on a new cambelt before sale or alternatively, if it's a private sale, factor in a cambelt replacement cost of circa £750 into the price you offer for the van. Otherwise the Ford Transit Custom is a great van to drive with plenty of affordable parts and repair options.
Answered by Craig Cheetham
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